However, the store’s cameras clearly captured pictures of the criminal’s face.

The bag was such a bad disguise that he was apprehended two days later by an
off-duty cop – who instantly recognised him in the street from CCTV footage.

Detectives have branded Neil’s disguise “ridiculous”.

Neil’s stupidity was rivalled only by accomplice Gareth Tilley, 20.

Although using the more effective disguise of a scarf tied around his face,
Tilley pretended his mobile phone was a gun – but was rumbled when the
keypad lit up.

The two crooks threatened the shop’s cashier, Kim Clowes, demanding all the
money from the till. The courageous shop assistant then raised the alarm,
and wrestled with Neil after he jumped over the counter.

Neil head-butted the assistant and the pair fled, taking a bottle of spirits
with them.

Neil, from Bethel, Cornwall was sentenced to two years in jail at Truro Crown
Court on June 14, with Judge John Neligan praising the shop assistant’s
bravery.

Tilley, of no fixed abode, received two years in a Young Offenders’ Institute
in November of last year.